5th December 2013
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It’s been a couple of months since my last blog and both
horses have had a well-earned rest. Alfie was in especially good books after
his performance at Bishop Burton so he had a nice relaxing time in the field
throughout October and the start of November. This said, with the fixture list
out for 2014 and my aim of entering the CIC1* at Chatsworth in May seeming (at
the moment) quite realistic I was keen to get him back up and into work. The
aim is to have him at a level of fitness where I can compete him lightly in
dressage and showjumping in order to work on these two disciplines and then add
in the more rigorous fitness work in spring. It also means that if the weather
turns nasty then at least I have had the opportunity for some schooling and his
fitness levels won’t diminish to nothing.
I decided he was fit enough to do a dressage test last
Sunday and I underestimated just how much I would enjoy being back out and
about. The break seemed to have done Alfie the world of good as he produced a
lovely test to win the Novice - I sometimes forget what a wonderful little
horse he is! I am now trying to keep him up and running as best possible so
that I can really hit the ground running next year. My plan is to complete a
couple of novices throughout March and April before Chatsworth in May (there is
then an enforced break due to the wedding!!)
Herbie had a little break at the end of the season before
mum took over the reins and has been working on his dressage since the end of
October. She has done a truly great job and has had 2 wins and a third
throughout November; she has now affiliated him which is very exciting
(although I am getting a bit worried about stealing the ride back in spring!).
The aim is for Mum to continue with him throughout winter although I will take
advantage of his fitness and have some jumping sessions in order to sharpen him
up ready for the start of the eventing season.
All in all I would have to say that the winter months have
not brought with them a slow in pace. The wedding is creeping ever closer as is
the 2014 season so it’s full steam ahead to ensure both of these are a success!
I would like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a
happy and safe New Year!
Best wishes,
‘Team Cawood’
